During the 28th Annual Economist Government Roundtable, Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs George Gerapetritis emphasized Greece's collaborative efforts with other countries, particularly Türkiye.
Addressing the theme "Geopolitical Conflicts: What are the preconditions for sustainable peace?", Gerapetritis underscored the importance of dialogue with neighbours to prevent conflicts, likening it to a soccer game without a video assistant referee (VAR) to correct mistakes.
Gerapetritis highlighted Greece's positive agenda, citing the controlled migration issue and improved interpersonal relations between Greeks and Turks, facilitated by agreements with the EU. He noted that aerial conflicts over the Aegean Sea have been reduced to zero.
Regarding the European perspectives of Albania and North Macedonia, Gerapetritis stressed the importance of upholding international law consistently, expressing concerns over Albania's rule of law and reaffirming Greece's commitment to the Prespa Agreement with North Macedonia.
He emphasised the volatility of the Western Balkans and the need to maintain the momentum of the Thessaloniki Agenda, advocating for the inclusion of all Western Balkan countries in the EU. Gerapetritis called for a renewed vision for EU enlargement, including Moldova, Ukraine, Bosnia-Herzegovina, and Montenegro.
Greece's diplomatic efforts have garnered significant respect, with 182 out of 188 countries voting for Greece as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council.
Addressing the Middle East, Gerapetritis called for a cessation of hostilities, humanitarian aid, and the immediate release of hostages. On Ukraine, he emphasized that attacks on sovereignty and territorial integrity must be viewed as a collective concern.
Gerapetritis concluded by highlighting Greece's multifaceted foreign policy, which has made significant impacts on the EU through initiatives such as the Recovery Fund, the Migration and Asylum Treaty, and European defense.